AS/A2 AQA

*Click here to access the Science website*

The Environmental Studies specification enables students to gain a deep and well-informed insight into the science of the environment and the various processes that control and affect it.  The central theme is the development of an understanding of how different events and cycles within the environment interrelate, how they influence subsequent environmental events, the human impacts on these events and cycles and the strategies both scientific and political that can be used to minimise the problems causes.  Key aspects within the specification include areas such as ‘Wildlife Conservation’, ‘Pollution’, ‘Global Climate Change’ and ‘Sustainability’.

How will the course be assessed?
Exams will be in June.
There is no coursework associated with this subject but practical and field work skills will be assessed as part of the written exam.

Course Outline
4 units: 2 for AS and 2 for A2 level:

AS Level
2 modules externally assessed through written examinations (Unit 1: The Living Environment (conditions for life on earth, wildlife conservation and land resources), 40% of AS.  Unit 2: The Physical Environment (the atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere), 60% of AS).

A2 Level
2 modules externally assessed through written examinations (Unit 3: Energy Resources and Environmental Pollution (energy and pollution), 50% of A2. Unit 4: Biological Resources and Sustainability (human populations, food production and fishing, forestry and sustainability), 50% of A2).

Lessons will be a mixture of theory, ILT, laboratory based practical activities and field work.  There will also be a number of visits at both AS and A2 to enhance your learning, including a residential field trip to Wales.  The emphasis of the course is on a scientific approach to the study of the environment.  It can be studied alongside any other A level course but is particularly well supported by Biology, Geography, or Geology.  For those wishing to study just one Science, Environmental Studies is ideal as it is both broad based and challenging.  During your studies you will have the opportunity to develop your analytical and problem solving skills whilst improving your communication and debating skills through group work, research and class presentations.

Preferred Entry Requirements
Grades A or B in Dual Award Science or the separate sciences (not Applied Science), and grade C or above in Maths and English.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.